A PREMIER NEURODIVERGENT SUMMER CAMP
At Camp Akeela, we believe that when neurodivergent kids come together in a traditional camp setting, extraordinary things happen. Our specialized camps for neurodivergent kids create an environment where being different isn’t just accepted; it’s celebrated. Surrounded by staff members who truly “get” them and other quirky peers, campers discover they belong and can be the best versions of themselves.
Meet Our Campers
Akeela campers are completing grades 3 – 10 andare excited about a camp experience that supports their social growth. Many have been diagnosed with ASD Level 1 (formerly Asperger’s), NVLD, ADD / ADHD, or a similar neurodivergent profile. At Akeela, they truly belong and find lifelong friends.
All About Akeela
Akeela campers are completing grades 3 – 10 andare excited about a camp experience that supports their social growth. Many have been diagnosed with ASD Level 1 (formerly Asperger’s), NVLD, ADD / ADHD, or a similar neurodivergent profile. At Akeela, they truly belong and find lifelong friends.
Why choose camp akeela
Our social skills camp for children stands apart because of our unique approach to growth and development. This sense of belonging and community, paired with ongoing coaching from our skilled counselors, leads to unmatched growth in:
- Social Skills Development: Real-world practice in a supportiv e environment
- Executive Functioning: Building organizational and planning skills
- Self-Advocacy: Finding their voice and e xpressing their needs
- Independence Building: Gaining confidence in daily life skills
- Flexibility & Adaptability: Learning to navigate new situations with confidence
- Authentic Friendships: Connecting with peers who truly understand them
“At Camp Akeela, we believe that when neurodivergent kids come together in a traditional camp setting, extraordinary things happen.”
– Happy Parent
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why did you start offering all-gender cabins?
There are several factors involved in our decision to offer more inclusive housing options:
- Providing an inclusive, all-gender cabin option is important to create a welcoming and affirming experience, particularly for campers who identify beyond the gender binary of boy or girl.
- There is a notable overlap between neurodiversity and gender diversity, and Camp Akeela is committed to celebrating all parts of our camper’s identities.
- A survey of our families in 2023 confirmed that Akeela campers and their families support this additional option.
- It allows us to accommodate bunking requests between campers of different genders and campers who simply want a multi-gender cabin experience.
If we select the all-gender option, what is the experience like for my camper?
Your camper’s experience is the same as any other bunk group! The only difference is that all-gender cabins are staffed by counselors who have opted in to work with all-gender cabins and who represent a mix of genders. Bunks are a “home base” at camp, and all campers will participate in the same camp activities as all other bunks, including their Specialty Periods.
How do you address bathroom usage and privacy in all-gender cabins?
All bathrooms and showers at Camp Akeela are single-use and private. There are two locking bathroom stalls per bunk, and two shower stalls with shower curtains. Expectations in these spaces are reviewed at the beginning of camp, and bathroom time and Shower Hour are supervised by counselors who ensure privacy and safety.
Who will be the counselors in all-gender cabins?
In our staff application and during our 10-day staff orientation, we give counselors the opportunity to select which cabins they would be comfortable supervising. All staff receive training on promoting positive cabin environments, following and enforcing privacy rules, and the gender spectrum. Counselors are then placed in cabins based on what staff and leadership think would provide the best possible experience for campers. There are 4 staff members in each cabin of 6-9 campers, and they sleep in bunks near entrances and exits to cabins.
How do I select an all-gender bunk for my camper?
We work with parents and guardians during the enrollment process to determine their campers’ preferences and to ensure the group is the right fit for them. If a camper’s first choice is an all-gender bunk, we will also have them select a second choice (boys or girls) in the event that we do not have enough interest to open an all-gender bunk in that age group.
UNMATCHED SOCIAL SUCCESS AT SUMMER CAMP
What makes our neurodivergent summer camp truly special? It’s our understanding that every camper brings unique strengths and faces individual challenges. Our high counselor-to-camper ratio ensures personalized attention, while our carefully designed program structure provides the predictability and support that helps neurodivergent children thrive. The small setting creates an intimate community where lasting friendships are formed and social skills are developed naturally through shared experiences and genuine connections.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM OUR NEURODIVERGENT SUMMER CAMP
At Camp Akeela, families can expect a transformative overnight camp experience for children with Autism (Level 1, formerly known as Asperger’s Syndrome), NVLD, ADD or ADHD, and similar neurodivergent profiles. From the moment campers arrive at our beautiful campus, our focus is to provide a thoughtfully crafted set of traditional camp activities that make summer camp unforgettable, while embracing the necessities of our community. Parents can expect regular communication, transparent updates, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing their child is understood and valued. Learn more about our communication, safety, and health care policies.
Our co-ed sleepaway camp combines the structure many neurodiverse children thrive on with the flexibility to accommodate individual sensory needs and social comfort levels.
